Peak Picks & Reviews

If slaughterhouses had glass walls, everyone would be vegetarian. Introduction  Melanie Joy's Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows is a seminal exploration of " carnism ," the invisible belief system that conditions society to selectively value certain animals while consuming others. Published in 2010, the book merges psychology, sociology, and personal anecdotes to unpack the cultural and psychological frameworks that uphold meat consumption. Joy’s critical work invites readers to confront their assumptions about food, morality, and empathy, aiming to foster awareness and compassion in a world often detached from the realities of its dietary choices. Thematic Analysis  1. Exploring Carnism: A System of Invisibility and Justification  At the heart of the book is Joy's concept of carnism, a belief system that remains unnamed and unexamined in most cultures. Joy argues that carnism operates through mechanisms such as denial, justification, and rationalization, allo...

 Because of this, we have to be very precise when talking to our dog. (...) 'I said sit, you stupid dog.' The dog now sits, but it was the human that was being stupid. Introduction  Stanley Coren’s How to Speak Dog provides readers with an intriguing exploration of canine communication, blending scientific insight with practical advice for dog owners. Published in 2001, this book aims to bridge the gap between humans and their four-legged companions by teaching readers to decode the signals dogs use to convey their emotions, intentions, and needs. With his background as a psychologist and dog behavior expert, Coren weaves together evolutionary theory, psychology, and detailed observations of dog behavior, making the book accessible yet informative.  The book appeals to dog lovers who are keen to deepen their relationship with their pets by learning how to interpret their canine friends' language. Coren’s central argument is that dogs, while lacking human-like language, po...

Pambird. Yes! She’d be marvelous as Pambird. What fun it would be to tame her, to hood her and starve her and train her and make her his pet. Introduction  Peregrine, authored by William Bayer, is a compelling thriller that combines crime, psychological depth, and a unique exploration of the relationship between predator and prey. The novel received the prestigious Edgar Award for Best Novel, a testament to its intricate plot and profound thematic resonance. Set primarily in New York, it digs into the lives of three key figures: Jay Hollander, a falconer who uses his peregrine falcon to commit murders; Pam Barrett, an ambitious TV news reporter; and NYPD detective Frank Janek, who is tasked with solving the murders. Peregrine is more than a standard crime novel—it is a dark exploration of obsession, control, and the primal instincts lurking beneath the surface of modern civilization. Synopsis  At the core of Peregrine is a chilling premise: Jay Hollander, a master falconer, tr...

Stay active . . . but cherish the lazy days. Introduction  Eat. Play. Love.: Life Lessons from My Dog by Emma Block is a delightful exploration of the wisdom our canine companions can teach us. Drawing on her personal experiences and the universal traits that make dogs such beloved animals, Block's book is both a visual and emotional treat. The book blends charming illustrations with life lessons gleaned from observing the simple joys, loyalty, and behaviors of dogs. Each lesson Block presents is a gentle reminder of the power of simplicity, presence, and unconditional love. This review will look into the synopsis of the book, its thematic elements, and the broader message it conveys, ultimately showing how Block’s work invites readers to appreciate the small but meaningful life lessons embedded in our everyday interactions with dogs. Synopsis  The structure of Eat. Play. Love. is straightforward and accessible. It consists of a series of short reflections paired with playful ...

Our failure to grasp these fundamental tenets of existence will be our undoing. And one thing is for certain: No cavalry is going to come charging to our rescue; we are going to have to rescue ourselves or die trying. Introduction  Babylon's Ark: The Incredible Wartime Rescue of the Baghdad Zoo, written by Lawrence Anthony with Graham Spence, is a gripping account of an extraordinary mission carried out during one of the most tumultuous periods in recent history. Set against the backdrop of the Iraq War, the book narrates Anthony's daring and heartwarming efforts to save the animals of the Baghdad Zoo from the chaos of war. Known for his work with endangered species, particularly elephants, Anthony's journey into a warzone to rescue animals reflects both his deep commitment to wildlife and the complicated relationship between humanity and the animal kingdom.  The book is not just a tale of animal rescue; it digs into the moral complexities of war, the resilience of life, an...

However different they are, all superheroes come to us with a purpose, to save those in need. - from the movie 'Flora and Ulysses' (2021) Introduction  "Flora and Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures," written by Kate DiCamillo, is a remarkable blend of whimsical storytelling, profound themes, and captivating illustrations that target middle-grade readers yet speaks to audiences of all ages. This 2013 Newbery Medal-winning novel is a heartwarming exploration of life's complexities, wrapped in a story of a cynical young girl, Flora, and an unlikely superhero—a squirrel named Ulysses. The book, enriched with the illustrative art of K.G. Campbell, stands out not only for its humor and creativity but also for its ability to weave significant life lessons into an accessible narrative. DiCamillo's writing, marked by its blend of light-hearted fun and deep emotional resonance, ensures that "Flora and Ulysses" is more than just a children's book—it's ...

I have been in my domain for nine thousand eight hundred and fifty-five days. Alone. For a while, when I was young and foolish, I thought I was the last gorilla on earth. Introduction  Katherine Applegate’s The One and Only Ivan is a poignant, beautifully written middle-grade novel that deftly explores themes of friendship, freedom, and the human-animal bond. Published in 2012, the book has garnered widespread acclaim, including winning the prestigious Newbery Medal. The story is inspired by the real-life experiences of a captive gorilla named Ivan, who spent 27 years in a shopping mall cage before being relocated to a zoo. Applegate’s novel, however, transcends its factual origins to deliver a tale that is both heartbreaking and hopeful. Through the voice of Ivan, a silverback gorilla who has lived for years in captivity, Applegate invites readers to reflect on the complexities of animal captivity and the powerful connections that can form between beings, no matter how different t...

Stories are light. Light is precious in a world so dark. Introduction  Kate DiCamillo’s The Tale of Despereaux is a unique and enchanting children’s novel that dives deep into themes of courage, love, forgiveness, and the complex nature of light and darkness. The book, which won the Newbery Medal in 2004, has captivated readers of all ages with its rich storytelling, whimsical characters, and vivid imagery. Divided into four parts, each focusing on different characters and their interwoven stories, The Tale of Despereaux explores the intersection of fate and personal choice in a world where the smallest actions can lead to the most profound consequences.  This review will provide an in-depth analysis of the novel, beginning with a detailed synopsis, followed by a thematic analysis that examines the central motifs of the story, a discussion of its 2008 film adaptation, and a conclusion that evaluates its literary significance and enduring appeal. Synopsis  The Tale of Desp...

  If Jesus ever comes back to earth again, I'm thinking, he'll come as a dog, because there isn't anything as humble or patient or loving or loyal as the dog I have in my arms right now. Introduction  "Shiloh" by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor is a timeless work of children's literature that has captivated readers since its publication in 1991. This novel, which won the Newbery Medal in 1992, explores complex themes such as morality, empathy, and the bond between humans and animals through the eyes of an eleven-year-old boy, Marty Preston. Set in the rural landscape of West Virginia, "Shiloh" is a compelling narrative that dives into the ethical dilemmas faced by its young protagonist when he encounters an abused beagle and makes a difficult decision that tests his character and values. This review will provide a synopsis of the book, delve into its thematic elements, and conclude with an analysis of its impact and relevance. Synopsis  "Shiloh" be...

 I know this much about racing in the rain. I know it is about balance. It is about anticipation and patience. I know all of the driving skills that are necessary for one to be successful in the rain. But racing in the rain is also about the mind! Introduction  "The Art of Racing in the Rain," a novel by Garth Stein, invites readers into a unique narrative where life's complexities and the human condition are explored through the eyes of an unusual but profoundly insightful narrator—a dog named Enzo. This novel, published in 2008, quickly became a bestseller, resonating deeply with readers through its poignant blend of humor, sorrow, and philosophical musings. Stein's ability to portray deep emotions and significant themes through the perspective of a dog sets this book apart, making it a memorable and thought-provoking read. This review looks into the novel’s synopsis, thematic analysis, and overall impact, highlighting why "The Art of Racing in the Rain" r...

 Maybe the Europeans once thought the earth was flat, but the Eskimos always knew it was round. One only needed to look at the earth’s relatives, the sun and the moon, to know that. Introduction  "Julie of the Wolves," written by Jean Craighead George, is a captivating novel that has enchanted readers since its publication in 1972. The book, which won the prestigious Newbery Medal in 1973, tells the story of a young Eskimo girl named Miyax, who is also known by her English name, Julie. The novel is a poignant exploration of survival, identity, and the intricate relationship between humans and nature. Through Miyax’s journey, George masterfully weaves a tale that is both a survival adventure and a deep commentary on the cultural transitions and environmental issues facing indigenous communities in Alaska. Synopsis  The narrative begins with Miyax lost on the North Slope of Alaska, trying to find her way to San Francisco, where she hopes to start a new life with a pen pal n...